Department of Family Services

CONTACT INFORMATION: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
703-324-7500 TTY 711
12011 Government Center Parkway, Pennino Building
Fairfax, VA 22035
Michael A. Becketts
Director

Department Resources

Related Resources

Teen Advocates Social Media Day – Community Engagement Toolkit

Translate this page into a different language.
Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline 703-360-7273; TTY 711
exit website button circle

  SAFETY ALERT – If you are in danger, call or text 911.

While Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is acknowledged every February, the conversation doesn’t stop when the month ends. Together, we can keep shining a light on the importance of healthy relationships and preventing teen dating violence all year long. Everyone’s voice is critical to preventing and ending teen dating violence in our community.

Some of the posts in this toolkit will speak to parents and caregivers; others will speak to teens. Whether you’re sharing content on Facebook, Instagram, X, or any other platform, we've got you covered!

Mark your calendars now and plan to share one to two posts on your social media channels on Thursday, May 7, 2026. Feel free to share this call to action with other organizations, colleagues, friends, and family to help expand our reach and make an even greater impact!

 

message clouds graphic

Check out these easy-to-use tools for Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram postings.

Social Media Tip: It's more effective to post a message with a graphic. 

Follow these quick and easy steps to copy a Facebook message and post it along with one of the graphics from your computer.

  1. Highlight the text.
  2. Right-click and select copy.
  3. Paste the text into your post.

In Facebook posts, please tag us @FairfaxCountyFamilyServices. This helps people to quickly and conveniently connect with us.

Did you know? 1 in 10 American teens experiences physical abuse in their early relationships, and between 20-30% report verbal or emotional abuse. Remember: Love should never hurt. Healthy relationships are built on respect, trust, and kindness.

If you or someone you know needs support, reach out to a trusted adult, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233), or Fairfax County’s Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273. Together, we can create healthy relationships.

#TeenDatingViolenceAwareness #HealthyRelationships #LoveIsRespect #YouDeserveLove #UntilEveryoneIsSafe

Dating abuse is not OK! Only 1 in 3 teens who face dating violence ever tell anyone. Why’s that?

Sometimes, when you first start dating unhealthy stuff seem “normal.” But guess what? It’s not!

You deserve better. If you’re dealing with physical, emotional, or verbal abuse, don’t keep it a secret! You’re not alone; there are people who care and want to help. Hit share and let other teens know they don’t have to stay quiet either. Or call the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273 for more helpful information. Together, we can make dating safe and healthy for everyone.

#DatingAbuse #SpeakUp #KnowYourWorth #UntilEveryoneIsSafe

Did you know 1 in 5 women and 1 in 7 men first face abuse like rape, physical violence, or stalking between ages 11 and 17? Know the red flags:

  • Mind Games: emotional manipulation, controlling behavior, or threats.
  • Physical Harm: If your partner hurts you, it’s never OK. You deserve respect and safety.
  • Pressure: Nobody should push you into anything you’re uncomfortable doing.

You’re never alone. Talk to friends, family, or a trusted adult. Or call the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273. You deserve kindness, love, and a healthy relationship.

Share this post to help others recognize the warning signs and build safer relationships!

#HealthyLove #DatingViolenceAwareness #YouDeserveBetter #UntilEveryoneIsSafe

Important reminder: If you or someone you know is dealing with abuse, get help from professionals. You’re not alone! Did you know? Victims of digital harassment face major risks:

  • 2x more likely to face physical abuse.
  • 2x more likely to endure psychological abuse.
  • 5x more likely to experience sexual coercion.

Take action:

  • Speak up: Report online abuse. Your voice matters.
  • Get support: Lean on trusted friends, family, or professionals for help. Or call the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273.
  • Know your rights: No one has the right to mistreat you.
  • Spread awareness: Share this info and help create safer spaces online.

You deserve kindness, respect, and safety—always.

#DigitalSafety #YouAreNotAlone #UntilEveryoneIsSafe

Boundaries are your personal "no trespassing" sign. They keep your emotional space safe and respected. Here’s the deal:

  • Say no: Not feeling it? Trust your gut and speak up. It’s OK to say no. You deserve respect.
  • Speak up: If someone crosses the line, call it out: “Hey, I’m not cool with that.”
  • Respect others: Boundaries go both ways! Be kind—everyone’s got their limits.
  • Stay smart online: Don't overshare or tolerate cyberbullying.
  • Protect your energy: If something’s draining you, step back. You’re not here to fix everyone’s problems.

Boundaries aren’t walls; they’re legit keys to better vibes and healthier friendships. Call the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273 for more tips.

#BoundariesAreCool #TeenTips #PutRespectFirst #UntilEveryoneIsSafe

Follow these quick and easy steps to copy a Facebook message and post it along with one of the graphics from your computer.

  1. Highlight the text.
  2. Right-click and select copy.
  3. Paste the text into your post.

In Facebook posts, please tag us @FairfaxCountyFamilyServices. This helps people to quickly and conveniently connect with us.

Parents and caregivers, recognizing the signs of teen dating violence (TDV) is key to protecting your teen. Here’s how:

  • Spot red flags: Sudden mood swings? Isolation? Fearful vibes? Pay attention.
  • Keep it open: Foster honest convos about relationships without judgment.
  • Teach boundaries and respect: Consent and self-worth are must-knows.
  • Be there: If your teen opens up about TDV, listen, support, and stand by them.

You’re vital in preventing TDV. Let’s spread awareness and keep teens safe. Call the Domestic and Sexual Violence Services 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273 for more information about teen dating violence and healthy relationships.

#ParentTips #HealthyRelationships #TeenSafety #UntilEveryoneIsSafe

Parents and caregivers, your guidance is key to helping teens navigate the digital world safely! Here’s how to create healthy online habits:

  • Talk about it: Keep communication open. Encourage your teen to share their online experiences—both good and bad—and listen without judgment.
  • Privacy is power: Teach them to use privacy settings, guard personal info, and think twice before sharing online.
  • Spot digital abuse: Watch for red flags like excessive monitoring, controlling behavior, or cyberbullying. Act if you see them. Set boundaries: Establish rules for screen time, social media, and online interactions. Encourage offline breaks to balance their routine.
  • Be the example: Show them how to use tech respectfully and responsibly by modeling it.

Let’s empower teens to thrive in a safer, smarter digital space. Call the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273 if you need support.

#ParentingTips #DigitalSafety #TeensOnline #UntilEveryoneIsSafe

Did you know nearly 1.5 million high schoolers face physical abuse from a dating partner each year? And only 33% speak up about it. Plus, 1 in 3 teens in the U.S. experiences physical, emotional, sexual, or verbal abuse in relationships. It’s time to change the narrative. Let’s spread awareness, start conversations, and promote healthy, respectful love. Learn more about teen dating violence by calling the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273.

#TeenDatingViolence #HealthyLove #UntilEveryoneIsSafe

Parents, you’re key to preventing teen dating violence. When teens feel supported by caring adults, they’re more likely to make positive choices and avoid risky behaviors.

  • Talk it out: Foster open communication about relationships and feelings—no judgment, just support.
  • Model respect: Show what healthy relationships look like with kindness, respect, and trust.
  • Be their guide: Encourage self-worth and emotional well-being so they thrive in safe connections.

Together, we can create safe spaces where teens grow with confidence and love. Find out more by calling the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273.

#ParentingTips #HealthyRelationships #TeenWellBeing #UntilEveryoneIsSafe

Talking with teens about their relationships is tricky but super important. Here’s how to approach it:

  • Pick the right moment: Choose a private, relaxed time where they feel safe to open up.
  • Listen; don’t judge: Let them share without criticism or jumping to conclusions.
  • Empower: Respect their decisions and let them lead the conversation.
  • Respect privacy: Build trust by avoiding overly strict rules that might push them away.

Your support means everything. Let’s help teens create strong, respectful relationships. Get more helpful approaches by calling the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273.

#ParentingTips #HealthyLove #SupportYourTeens #UntilEveryoneIsSafe

Follow these quick and easy steps to download a file to your computer:

  1. Click on the graphic.
  2. After it opens, right-click on the graphic and select to save the file.

In Facebook posts, please tag us @FairfaxCountyFamilyServices. This helps people to quickly and conveniently connect with us.

       

       

          

 

Learn about Teen Dating Violence.

Back to top

Close
Fairfax Virtual Assistant

Related Resources